Untamed Luxury

When it finally came time for my parents to take their dream trip, an African safari, they left the planning up to me…not wanting to let my parents down, I knew there was only one person I trusted with this task…the king of cool, Sir Richard Branson and his private game reserve, Ulusaba.

Set in the heart of the Sabi Sand Reserve on the border of the Kruger National Park in South Africa, Ulusaba oozes luxury while staying true to the Safari experience. The property has two lodges to choose from…Rock Lodge, perched on a hill with breath taking views…and Safari Lodge, set in the heart of the bush. Since game is what my parents wanted to see, I chose the Safari Lodge…and game they did see…to the point where they needed to be escorted to the room at night by an armed tracker for safety.

As it is a private game reserve, the chances of seeing a vast array of animals is higher…as was the case for my parents, who saw so many lions, elephants, etc…that it became common place to see a lion walk by or a mischievous baboon steeling someone’s sunscreen by the pool. They described the place as so magical that it was almost Disney like, until they realized these creatures are not tamed Hollywood animal actors but dangerous wild beasts.

The beauty of Ulusaba is that it is able to offer five star amenities and at the same time provide a relaxed at home vibe. A perfect example is the weekly African Boma (BBQ) they organize out in the bush…as my mother colorfully explained, they were taken on a nighttime game drive and magically appeared at a beautiful BBQ under the stars. But this was no average BBQ in the wilderness, Sir Branson would not do anything average…this was an outdoor five star restaurant whimsically lit by lanterns hanging from the trees, that featured a full bar, dancing and even fully functional outdoor restrooms (A.K.A. high-class port-a-potties).

As with most things spectacular and Branson related, Ulusaba is pricey starting at $500 per person per night…but for an all inclusive luxury safari the price is not outrageous. www.ulusaba.virgin.com

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